Young people in the Galliagh area of Derry have been called not to get involved in anti-social behaviour over the summer period.
The call comes Brian Tierney, SDLP councillor for the area, who was speaking after being contacted by residents in the Galliagh Park area about “numerous incidents” in the last few weeks.
Cllr Tierney said: “One particular incident involved a gang of youths who burnt an old suite of furniture that was put out for collection the following morning.
“There are a number of young families living in this area and to say they are afraid at night would be an understatement.”
Cllr Tierney said some residents told him the young people were aged between 14-16 years old and pointed out there were younger children watching what they were doing.
Cllr Brian Tierney.
Cllr Tierney added: “I don’t think these teenagers realise that younger children look at them as role models and I would appeal to them to stop and think about the effects of their actions.
“Given the ages of the children involved I would also ask parents to reinforce to their children the importance of not getting involved in this type of behaviour and to keep a close eye on their actions over the summer months and brighter nights.”
Cllr Tierney concluded: “There is a lot of good work being done within this community and lots happening at this time with the Earhart Festival taking place this week and I would encourage young people to engage with the festival, and other activities and programmes taken place throughout the summer.”
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